What NOT To Do In The Upvc Window Handle Replacement Industry
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a relatively easy task and with the right tools it can be done quite quickly. But it's essential to know the handle's type and spindle's length prior buying the replacement glass in windows.
Older uPVC windows use cockspur handles for windows. They have spurs that protrude to secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and must be to be replaced with the same handle.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are many kinds of window handles made from upvc and locks, each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions as intended. Over time, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows can get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In some instances, they could even fall completely off. If you notice that your upvc window handles have fallen off, it's important to repair them as quickly as you can. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home secure.
It's a simple job that almost anyone can do. With just a few tools and the proper knowledge it's a simple procedure that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. To begin you'll need to determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your window and then find the perfect replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually located on the other side of your window. They are flat and have a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles have spindles that run through the middle of the handle and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older upvc window lock replacement windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame of the window and are not as secure as other types of window handles.
Tilt and Turn Handles
In contrast to other upvc handles that are tilt and turn, these handles can both be rotated to open the window and turned inwards to allow to allow ventilation. In general, they have a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in both left and right handed versions.
When buying replacement upvc handles it is essential to measure the spindle's length because not all handles are identical in size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit into your windows.
What is a spindle?
uPVC window handles operate in a similar manner as doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. The window then opens and closed. However, in some cases, the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not operate the window correctly in the future.
There are a variety of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle utilizes a specific spindle to lock the mechanism into the window. This is why it is essential to know the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement for it.
You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of the handle. There should be a "snap in' cover over one screw that holds the handle's base in place. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw located at the opposite end of the base section of the handle. Once both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.
After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need to buy a replacement double glazing windows of the same length as the handle that was originally used and locking device.
The spindle wears down and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage caused by frequent use, or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, you will have to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.
How do I remove the handle from the previous one?
Window handles can be damaged or destroyed over time. It is important to fix them as soon as you can to ensure your security. It is simple to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be completed in less than one minute without the need for any special tools.
To take off the handle, first remove the screw at the bottom of the handle. Once this is removed the handle will be removed from the base section. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and it can be removed too. After these two screws have been removed, the handle will be removed from the window's base.
After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the existing holes in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if necessary and then screw the handle into the appropriate position. Once the handle is set, it is important to test that it is working by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism is activated.
Espag handles have a spindle which protrudes out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism of the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cutouts which fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the frame that surrounds the window or the transom bar crossmember.
After you have installed the new handle, place the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) once the handle is securely fixed. The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working well and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It's not that difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The procedure is easy. You'll need a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first step is to ensure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then take out any screws that are visible. you can replace them by screw caps if you need. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take an note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the kind of handle you'll need to buy.
Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most well-known kind of handle. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism within the window frame. When the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.
Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They have an extended blade that works an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are usually more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced using the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you will need to make sure that the new handle has a curved blade, as opposed to flat ones.
Once you've decided on the correct handle to purchase then you can place the new handle with the existing screw holes, and then screw it in the appropriate position. You should then put the screw covers back on and test that the new handle functions correctly. This is accomplished by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and vice versa a few times. If you encounter any issues, it could be worth contacting a specialist to see if they can help resolve the problem. They can advise you on how to fix the problem in a timely and effective way.